The Consumer Affairs Division has launched its MVP Program, a new public-private venture to recognize companies placing a high value on consumer-friendly business practices. Companies approved for MVP membership pay an annual fee and in exchange receive multiple benefits including recognition on the Consumer Affairs Web site and authorization to use the MVP logo in advertising and marketing. In addition, Consumer Affairs will provide customer service training for employees of MVP businesses.
The MVP Program is just starting to gain recognition by local businesses. About 35 companies have already signed up to be members. As an additional incentive, the first 300 companies are being given the added distinction of being “Founding” members. Companies can join the program by visiting the MVP Program Web site, www.pbcgov.com/mvp, and clicking on "Become a Member."
"MVP is a win-win-win for consumers, businesses and Consumer Affairs," said Director Dennis Moore. "In these difficult economic times, consumers are desperately searching for businesses they can trust to treat them fairly. Our MVP Program is all about building consumer confidence."
While the MVP Program provides direct benefits to consumers and businesses, it also benefits the Consumer Affairs Division and county taxpayers. The revenue voluntarily generated from the program helps offset operational costs, reduces dependence on property tax dollars and enhances consumer protection and education.
In the first seven months of the 2009 fiscal year, residents used the Consumer Affairs Web site, www.pbcgov.com/consumer, to look up information about businesses 414,704 times. Consumers can now use the Web site to look for the distinctive MVP logo and know that businesses with this designation are committed to quality service. The user-friendly MVP Program Web site can be accessed through the Consumer Affairs Web site or by going directly to www.pbcgov.com/mvp. To find a company with MVP status, simply click on “Find a Business.” Then choose a business type to see a list of all businesses of that type and the ones that have earned the MVP logo.
Consumer Affairs may also remove a company from the MVP Program if it doesn’t continue to meet standards. Consumer Affairs has been an effective consumer watch dog in the county for 37 years, and it provides results-oriented mediation and consumer protection services for residents. The MVP Program helps to accomplish these goals. Last year, Consumer Affairs recovered over $635,000 in cash refunds and services for consumers.
The Consumer Affairs Division was initiated by the Board of County Commissioners in 1972 to help county citizens resolve disputes with local businesses. The division has enforcement authority over businesses that conduct unfair or deceptive trade practices and has regulatory authority over the local moving, towing and vehicle for hire industries. During declared emergencies, the Consumer Affairs Division enforces a county-wide price gouging ordinance.
For more information on the program, call 561-712-6MVP (6687).
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